How to Get Rid of a Tension Headache in 15 Seconds Flat

Step away from the ibuprofen. While your first instinct for treating a tension headache might be to grab the OTC pain meds, there’s actually a super-effective natural remedy that will have you feeling better in 15 seconds. You don’t even have to get out of your seat to do it.

How to get rid of a tension headache:

Step 1: Take a deep breath and close your eyes. Give yourself a double chin by lowering your head toward your chest, but keeping your neck straight.

Step 2: Interlace your hands at the crown of your head and gently press down, keeping your chin tucked. You should feel a slight stretch at the base of your skull, along your neck and in your upper back.

Step 3: Hold this position for 15 seconds, then release. Ahh, that's better.

Why it works: There are four key muscles located at the base of your skull, known as the suboccipital muscles. Stress, fatigue and lack of exercise can cause these muscles to contract, leading to uncomfortable tension headaches. Before heading to the medicine cabinet, simply stretch your suboccipital muscles to release and relax them.

Additional Reporting by Abby Hepworth